The year 2024 got off to a strong start in cinemas with the highly anticipated musical adaptation of “Mean Girls” hitting theaters on Jan. 12, but the line-up of adaptations, spin-offs and new films coming this year is only more impressive. After production delays due to the WAG and SAG-AFTRA strikes, audiences have only become more eager to see what will come to theaters this year.
“Dune: Part Two” — The second installment of Dennis Villeneuve’s film adaptation of science fiction novel “Dune” is one of the most highly anticipated movies of 2024. Releasing on March 1, “Dune: Part Two” stars Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, a young man grappling with destiny as he tries to protect his home planet. The first film adapted the first half of the novel, and fans of the epic science fiction story have been eagerly awaiting the sequel’s March 1 release for two years.
“The Fall Guy” — Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt are set to star in a star-studded, big-budget adaptation of the 1980s TV show “The Fall Guy.” Gosling takes on the role of an experienced stunt double suddenly hurled into investigating the disappearance of the actor he doubles for, and Blunt stars opposite him as the director of the film and his ex-girlfriend. The comedic action film, directed by David Leitch, will be in theaters on May 3.
“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” — This post-apocalyptic, action-packed film releases on May 24, as the fifth installment in the “Mad Max” franchise and specifically a spin-off to “Mad Max: Fury Road.” Anya Taylor-Joy stars as Furiosa, a girl who was stolen from her home in the middle of a worldwide disaster and spends the film trying to make her way back. The popular franchise has spawned video games, comic books and more, making this film’s addition a notable one.
“Deadpool 3” — Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool makes his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut with Deadpool 3. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film stars Reynolds as the titular character, while Hugh Jackman reprises his role of Wolverine, the “X-Men” anti-hero with retractable claws, whom audiences thought they saw the last of in the 2017’s “Logan.” “Deadpool 3” comes to theaters on July 16, six years after “Deadpool 2,” and audiences are preparing to revisit one of their favorite characters.
“Joker: Folie à Deux” — On the other side of the superhero universe, The DC Extended Universe is gearing up to release a second “Joker” movie starring Joaquin Phoenix. The subtitle—meaning “shared delusions” in French—prepares moviegoers for a thrilling film, while the musical element and inclusion of Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn drums up even more curiosity. The film, directed by Todd Phillips, will release on Oct. 4.
“Gladiator 2” — Black Friday will open with a new feature from Ridley Scott. Following the events of “Gladiator,” the film follows Lucius, now portrayed by Paul Mescal. The film also has other large names attached to it; Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal will both appear in the epic historical drama.
